Just as the holiday season arrives with its festive atmosphere and warm weather, it’s time to grab a drink that truly embodies the spirit of the occasion. As a bartender, I’ve had my fair share of holiday cocktails, but none quite compare to the rich, full-bodied taste of a brandy cocktail. Brandy is an incredibly versatile and complex spirit that adds depth and warmth to any drink, making it the perfect base for a holiday cocktail.
Its smoothness and complexity are sure to please even the most discerning palates, with notes of vanilla, caramel, and fruit. The history of brandy dates back to 16th century France, where it was first produced by distilling wine and aging it in oak barrels, resulting in its unique flavor profile. With such a rich heritage, it’s no wonder that brandy is known for its ability to evoke feelings of warmth and comfort, making it the perfect choice for holiday gatherings.
Whether you’re looking for something sweet and fruity or something rich and spicy, there’s a brandy cocktail out there for every taste. So, let’s raise a glass and toast the holiday season with some of the best brandy cocktail recipes around.
Spiced Orange Brandy Spritzers
Drenched in the warm and cozy atmosphere of the winter holidays, the Spiced Orange Brandy Spritzer is a delightful cocktail that perfectly captures the essence of this special time of year. Made with brandy, orange juice, allspice berries, and cinnamon stick, which are expertly shaken together to create a harmonious balance of flavors, the drink is then topped with ginger ale to add a refreshing and bubbly touch.
The result is a tantalizing combination that not only warms the palate but also lifts the spirits, making it an ideal choice for holiday gatherings. The allspice berries bring a sweet and warming note to the cocktail, while the ginger ale provides a delightful fizziness. A garnish of orange slices and cinnamon stick adds a festive touch to the drink, completing its winter wonderland charm.
Brandy Alexander Cocktail
Yellowing with age, the Brandy Alexander Cocktail is a rich and indulgent drink that embodies the spirit of the holiday season. Its velvety texture and deep chocolatey flavor make it an irresistible treat for those who crave something sweet. The sprinkle of freshly ground nutmeg adds a delightful festive touch, making it an ideal choice for any winter gathering. While any brandy can suffice, utilizing a superior quality cognac will undoubtedly elevate the flavor of this decadent cocktail.
For those seeking to impress their guests with a luxurious and scrumptious drink at their next holiday soiree, the Brandy Alexander Cocktail is certainly worth exploring.
French Cobbler
Achieving a taste of the French Riviera in every sip, The French Cobbler is a revitalizing and bright cocktail that will transport you to the sun-kissed Mediterranean coast. Made with St Remy Signature Brandy, this cocktail is particularly well-suited for the Holiday season, as its warming spices and autumnal flavors perfectly capture the essence of the season’s festive atmosphere.
The art of crafting a great Cobbler lies not only in its ingredients but also in the technique, particularly the use of crushed ice, which plays a crucial role in bringing out the full flavor and character of this classic cocktail. As such, those who are fans of traditional Cobblers and are eager to try something new will undoubtedly appreciate The French Cobbler’s unique twist on a beloved classic.
If you’re searching for a refreshing and delicious Brandy-based cocktail to enjoy during the Holiday season, The French Cobbler is an absolute must-try.
Brandy Old Fashioned Cocktail
Generally, when it comes to classic cocktails, there’s always room for a seasonal twist. The Brandy Old Fashioned Cocktail is no exception. By substituting brandy for the traditional whisky, this holiday version offers a smoother taste that captures the essence of the season. This warm and inviting cocktail is perfect for sipping by the fire on Christmas Eve with loved ones. The recipe, which balances sweet and bitter notes, can be easily scaled up or down to suit any gathering.
If you’re searching for a festive drink to share with friends and family, the Brandy Old Fashioned Cocktail is definitely worth trying.
Eggnog Brandy Alexander
Zeroing in on a classic holiday cocktail, the Eggnog Brandy Alexander is a rich and velvety treat that combines just three essential ingredients: eggnog, brandy, and spiced rum. The subtle yet distinctive warmth of nutmeg and cinnamon perfectly complements the smooth textures and flavors, creating an ideal cold-weather companion for cozying up by the fireplace during the festive season.
Holiday Brandy Slush
Making its way onto the top of many holiday party lists, the Holiday Brandy Slush is a drink that embodies the festive spirit. Combining the richness of brandy slush with the effervescence of ginger ale and the sweetness of fresh cranberries creates a truly unique and tantalizing flavor experience. This refreshing cocktail is not only perfect for sipping on a chilly winter evening, but it’s also an excellent choice to serve at gatherings and get-togethers during the holiday season.
Christmas Sidecar
Honoring the spirit of the holiday season, the Christmas Sidecar cocktail brings a refreshing twist to the classic Sidecar recipe. Crafted with cognac, triple sec, cranberry juice, and a squeeze of lime, this festive drink strikes a perfect balance between sweet and tart flavors. The infusion of cranberries gives it an unmistakable Christmassy charm, making it an ideal choice for sipping on while enjoying quality time with loved ones.
Its simplicity in preparation is matched only by its dramatic presentation when garnished with sugar and lime zest, adding a touch of elegance to any holiday gathering. If you’re searching for a show-stopping Brandy Holiday Cocktail recipe that’s sure to impress your guests, the Christmas Sidecar is an absolute must-try.
Brandy Slush
Vying for attention on your holiday drink menu should be the Brandy Slush, a Midwestern classic cocktail that seamlessly blends iced tea and brandy in perfect harmony. This revitalizing concoction is tailored to quench your thirst on a warm day or serve as an enticing offering at any gathering. The charm of this cocktail lies not only in its refreshing taste but also in the convenience it offers: prepare it ahead of time, store it in your freezer, and enjoy it whenever the moment strikes.
With its luscious and sweet flavor profile, the Brandy Slush is destined to be a crowd-pleaser among your guests. So why not give this delightful cocktail a try and discover its appeal for yourself?
Classic New Orleans Brandy Milk Punch
Taking your holiday celebrations to the next level requires a sophisticated and smooth cocktail that’s just as unique as it is delicious. The Classic New Orleans Brandy Milk Punch fits the bill perfectly, making it an ideal choice for Mardi Gras revelries, weekend brunches, or even as a clever hair-of-the-dog remedy to ease the morning after.
With its rich, creamy vanilla tones and subtle brandy undertones, this cocktail boasts a distinctive flavor profile that’s reminiscent of the holiday-favorite Eggnog, but with an intriguing twist that sets it apart from other festive drinks. Despite its unclear origins, this cocktail has been enjoying a loyal following for years, with some enthusiasts even touting its medicinal properties as a welcome bonus.
Whether you’re a bourbon aficionado or a brandy connoisseur, the Classic New Orleans Brandy Milk Punch is sure to surprise and delight with its understated yet captivating charm. Don’t miss out on this timeless but possibly new-to-you brunch option that’s guaranteed to impress even the most discerning palates.
Frozen Chocolate Brandy Alexander
Adorned with luxurious ingredients and creamy textures, the Frozen Chocolate Brandy Alexander is an ideal dessert cocktail for the holiday season. This indulgent twist on the classic Brandy Alexander incorporates Kohler’s Dark Chocolate Brandy, rich coffee, and two types of decadent ice cream to create a truly unique taste experience. Topped with fluffy whipped cream, a sprinkle of ground nutmeg adds depth, while shaved chocolate garnishes complete this mouthwatering dessert drink.
The Frozen Chocolate Brandy Alexander is the perfect accompaniment for after-dinner drinks or grand holiday gatherings, making it an essential cocktail to try during the festive season.
Brandy Alexander
Crafted over a century ago, the Brandy Alexander has become a timeless dessert cocktail classic. Its evolution from a gin-based recipe to one featuring brandy resulted in a smoother, sweeter flavor profile that has stood the test of time. This indulgent drink is composed of just five key ingredients and makes for an ideal addition to any holiday celebration. It’s a rich, creamy concoction with a pronounced boozy undertone, guaranteeing to leave you craving more.
If you’re searching for a show-stopping cocktail to serve at your next festive gathering, the Brandy Alexander is undoubtedly worth trying.
Maple Alexander
Want to elevate the classic Brandy Alexander cocktail with a twist? The Maple Alexander is just what you’re looking for. Made with Sortilège’s rich Maple Cream, this variation adds a subtle maple flavor to the traditional blend of brandy, chocolate, and cream, giving it a unique taste experience. Garnished with a sprinkle of nutmeg, this cocktail is an ideal choice for those with a sweet tooth seeking a liquid dessert alternative.
If you’re not in the mood for a cocktail, don’t worry – Sortilège’s Maple Cream can be enjoyed on its own or over ice, making it a versatile addition to any gathering. This holiday season, consider giving the Maple Alexander a try and infuse your bar cart with a touch of Canadian flair.
Holiday Pear Sangria
Among the many festive cocktails perfect for holiday gatherings, the Holiday Pear Sangria stands out with its sweet and refreshing flavors. Made by combining white wine with pear brandy, fresh pears, cranberries, winter citrus, spices, and a splash of ginger beer, this cocktail is sure to be a hit at any party. Its ease of preparation makes it ideal for busy hosts, as it can be prepared up to two days in advance, allowing you to focus on other aspects of hosting.
What truly sets the Holiday Pear Sangria apart is its unique blend of flavors, particularly the spicy kick from the ginger beer, which adds a delightful twist to the traditional sangria recipe. Whether you’re looking for a show-stopping cocktail to serve at your holiday party or simply want to offer something new and exciting to your guests, this festive drink is definitely worth trying.
Brandy Old Fashioned Sweet
Elevating the classic cocktail scene, the Brandy Old Fashioned Sweet has become an iconic drink in Wisconsin and around the world. This indulgent mix of brandy, muddled fruit, brown sugar, bitters, and lemon-lime soda creates a smooth yet crisp flavor profile that perfectly balances the boozy kick of the brandy with the sweetness of the fruit flavors.
The addition of an orange slice and cherry garnish gives this cocktail a festive and sophisticated touch, making it an ideal choice for holiday celebrations.
Wisconsin Brandy Old Fashioned
Beneath its classic roots, the Wisconsin Brandy Old Fashioned stands out as a refreshing departure from the traditional whiskey-based cocktail. By substituting brandy in place of the standard spirit, this drink gains a distinct flavor profile that sets it apart. The preparation process involves gently muddling together orange, cherry, sugar, and bitters before adding the brandy and filling the glass with ice to chill.
Red Winter Sangria
Delight in the flavors of the season with The Red Winter Sangria, a revitalizing cocktail infused with the essence of winter’s bounty. A symphony of seasonal fruits including apples, oranges, and cranberries creates a harmonious blend of holiday flavors, perfectly balanced by the sweetness of sugar and fruit juices.
The affordability of dry red wine adds depth to this festive drink, while the aromatic warmth of cinnamon sticks and star anise provides a delightful surprise that will surely impress your guests. Whether served alongside holiday appetizers or enjoyed on its own, this sangria is a must-try for anyone looking to elevate their seasonal celebrations.
Cranberry Apple Fizz
Unlock a festive twist on classic holiday cocktails with the Cranberry Apple Fizz, a refreshing drink that’s both easy to make and irresistibly delicious. This scrumptious concoction skillfully blends the timeless flavors of cranberry and apple brandy, subtly balanced by the sweetness of simple syrup, creating a perfect harmony of sweet and tangy notes that will delight your senses.
One of its greatest advantages is that it can be prepared ahead of time in a pitcher, allowing you to mingle with your guests rather than being stuck behind the bar all night long. Your partygoers will undoubtedly fall under its charm, requesting the recipe from one gathering to another and making this cran-apple fizz a sought-after addition to any Brandy Holiday Cocktail repertoire.
Tequila Punch
Need something to spice up your holiday party? The Tequila Punch is a game-changer! This show-stopping cocktail combines reposado tequila with homemade pear brandy, creating a rich, sweet flavor that’s perfectly balanced by the tang of seasonal fruits. The result is a stunning, vibrant red drink that’s almost too beautiful to drink – but trust us, you won’t want to resist sipping on this festive favorite.
Plus, it can be made ahead of time, making it an ideal choice for busy hosts who want to impress their guests without breaking a sweat.
Mulled Wine
Generally, mulled wine has been a staple of European holidays for centuries, offering a warm and aromatic respite from the chill of winter. Its creation involves heating red wine with various spices and sweeteners to produce a rich and flavorful drink that’s ideal for sipping on a cold winter evening.
The resulting beverage is a traditional Brandy Holiday Cocktail recipe that perfectly captures the spirit of celebration during the holiday season, allowing friends and family to come together and share in the joy of the occasion.
Blackberry Brandy Drink
Zestfully blending the flavors of berries with fine cognac, the Blackberry Brandy Drink is an invigorating and fruity concoction that’s perfect for those who crave the sweet taste of blackberries. This exceptional cocktail, made with premium French cognac, rich blackberry jam, Cointreau orange liqueur, fresh lemon juice, and plump blackberries, offers a quick and effortless recipe for creating a homemade masterpiece that’s ideal for warm summer evenings or festive Christmas celebrations.
Cognac, a fruit spirit crafted from the finest ingredients such as mash, juice, or wine, is used to create the Blackberry Brandy Drink. With its distinctive taste profile and revitalizing essence, this cocktail is a must-try for brandy aficionados. If you’re an ardent fan of fine spirits, you may even consider planning a trip to France to explore the historic vineyards and châteaux of Cognac while savoring this delectable cocktail.
Tom and Jerry Christmas Cocktail
Rounding out your holiday menu with a warm and sweet treat, the Tom and Jerry Christmas Cocktail is an old-fashioned recipe that’s sure to become a new tradition. Made with a homemade batter that combines powdered sugar, eggs, and baking soda, this festive drink is similar to both eggnog and a Hot Toddy in its rich and creamy texture. The addition of rum and brandy gives it a subtle kick, making it perfect for sipping on chilly winter nights.
A family favorite in many households, the Tom and Jerry Christmas Cocktail has been enjoyed around the holidays in small towns and Midwest bars for years. Whether you’re looking to create new memories or simply satisfy your nostalgia, this classic cocktail is definitely worth trying.
Brandy Mulled Wine
Just like many traditional holiday cocktails, Brandy Mulled Wine has been passed down through generations with its unique blend of spices and rich flavor profile. The key ingredients include cinnamon sticks, cloves, star anise, peppercorns, and a touch of sweetness from the maple syrup. The addition of brandy not only enhances the flavor but also gives it a smooth and velvety texture that’s perfect for sipping by the fire on a cold winter night.
Its simplicity and ease of preparation make it ideal for large batches, making it an excellent choice for holiday gatherings and parties.
Donner and Blitzen
Often overlooked as a staple in the world of cocktails, brandy holds a special place in the hearts of many during the holiday season. Its warmth and depth are perfectly balanced by the sweetness of pomegranate molasses and juice, while the spiciness of ginger beer and ginger simple syrup add a delightful twist. A few well-placed shakes of orange bitters introduce a hint of citrusy bitterness that expertly balances out the other ingredients.
The Donner and Blitzen cocktail is finished with a slice of orange and crystallized ginger, making it a visually stunning addition to any holiday party. If you’re looking for a drink that combines both delicious flavors and impressive presentation, this festive brandy cocktail is well worth a try.
Classic Sidecar Cocktail
Yellowed pages from dusty old recipe books often whisper tales of forgotten classics, but few have stood the test of time as elegantly as the Sidecar cocktail. With its rich history and simple yet refined ingredients, it’s a drink that has captivated palates for over a century. A dry blend of cognac, fresh lemon juice, and orange liqueur makes up this timeless concoction, with the sugared rim serving only to add a touch of whimsy to an already sophisticated creation.
The Sidecar is not just any cocktail; it’s one that requires finesse in its preparation, shaken rather than stirred, and best savored from the delicate curves of a coupe glass. This classic drink has been the subject of various tales and legends, each attempting to pinpoint the origin of its name and creator. Regardless of its true story, the Sidecar is an undeniable gem for those who appreciate the art of classic cocktails and yearn to experience a taste of bygone eras.
Sugar Plum Sidecar
Garnished with festive flair, the Sugar Plum Sidecar is a show-stopping holiday cocktail that’s sure to delight your guests this season. Crafted with homemade plum brandy, this sweet and tart concoction is the perfect addition to any holiday celebration. The infusion of plums into the brandy lends a distinct and mouthwatering flavor profile, expertly balanced by the triple sec and lemon juice. Meanwhile, the sugared cranberries that crown the drink add an exquisite touch of holiday panache.
French 45
Delighting partygoers with its unique blend of flavors, the French 45 is an understated yet sophisticated cocktail perfect for holiday gatherings. Although less well-known than some other classic cocktails, the French 45 has gained popularity in recent years due to its elegant and light character, making it a great way to unwind and socialize with friends.
What sets this cocktail apart from others is that it is similar to the classic French 75, but instead of being made with gin or cognac, it uses brandy as its base spirit. This modification makes the French 45 a more budget-friendly option for those looking to indulge in a premium drink without overspending.
